with the bold text in the example below: The Skychi Travel Guide : February 2015

Monday, February 2, 2015

Ernie Banks, A Great Humanitarian

Ernie Banks at his favorite lunch place Bongiorno Chicago
Ernie Banks at his favorite lunch place Bongiorno Chicago
During Social Media Week Chicago I stumbled upon this great little Italian Restaurant and Deli behind Trump Tower next to the Chicago River, Bongiorno's Chicago. I soon discovered that this quaint little Italian eatery was a favorite lunch spot of Ernie Banks. One day I stopped by the restaurant to meet with Tom Bongiorno the owner about catering a travel meetup event. May 2014,  I walked into Bongiorno's Deli, I spotted Ernie Banks sitting on a sofa in a corner of the restaurant. I could hardly contain myself with excitement. Tom asked me if I knew who he was? I shook my head yes, as I could hardly speak. Tom asked me if I wanted to meet Ernie Banks. I quickly said yes.

Ernie Banks and Tom Bongiorno on the Terrace
Ernie Banks and Tom Bongiorno on the Terrace


I sat down next to Mr. Ernie Banks on the sofa to take some photos. Then Ernie Banks began to share his stories with me. I remember Ernie Banks stating that he wanted to known for his philanthropy work and not his baseball career. He desire was that people remember him for being a humanitarian. Then Ernie Banks invited me to visit a prison with him. He shared that he visited prisons regularly. I declined because I did not feel comfortable going to a prison. I had these negative images floating around in my head.  I just couldn't do it at the time. Now I regret having passed up the opportunity to accompany Ernie Banks on one of his prison visits.

Autographed Photos of Ernie Banks at Bongiorno's
Autographed Photos of Ernie Banks at Bongiorno's


Ernie Banks took a genuine interest in my life, he encouraged me to call my ex-husband and tell him that I love him. Ernie Banks tried his best to convince me that I should reunite with my ex. We ended that conversation with I would think about. I laugh and smile to myself as I recall my visit with Ernie Banks. Yes, he was a humanitarian who spread joy to others. This is my remembrance of Ernie Banks.

Ernie Banks, A Great Humanitarian
Ernie Banks, A Great Humanitarian